You might. Because not only is Malta the smallest member of the European Union, but it also happens to be one of the warmest members of the ever-increasing Schengen Zone. Which means that if you’re a Schengen, and/or EU citizen, you get to travel to the archipelago - and throughout most of Europe - visa-free.*

But it also means that the millions of non-European annual travelers to Malta will need a Schengen visa to enjoy its many wonders.

And one of the mandatory requirements for a Schengen visa to Malta (and/or any of its Schengen neighbors) is to have proper Schengen travel insurance.

So let’s see where you stand.

Who doesn’t need a Schengen visa to come to Malta (for stays of less than 90 days)?

You can go to Malta (and the rest of the Schengen/EU) for up to three months visa-free if you are:

• A citizen of one (or more) of the Schengen countries and/or the EU;
• A holder of a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen member country;
• A citizen of a non-Schengen EU member country (i.e., Cyprus or Ireland)
• A citizen of a non-EU country (and/or territory) that has signed a visa exemption agreement with the EU.
  This includes Australia, Brazil, Canada, the U.K., the U.S., and roughly 60 nations total.

→ You do not need a short-stay visa for the Schengen Area.
And as a result, travel insurance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.

Who needs a Schengen visa for Malta (for stays of less than 90 days)?

Meanwhile, citizens of China, India, Russia, any African nation, and most Middle Eastern ones will indeed need to have that Maltese Schengen visa.

This applies to nationals of over a hundred nations worldwide that do not have a visa waiver agreement with the EU.

→ You need a Schengen visa. Therefore, travel insurance is mandatory for you.

PRO TIPS:
- The European Commission, fortunately, provides full lists of all countries that do and do not have visa waiver agreements with the EU.

- Schengen pros AXA can help you answer one of the world’s most common travel questions in no time too: Do I need a Schengen visa?

How do I get a Schengen visa for Malta?

If you do in fact need that Maltese Schengen visa, you’re already on the right path too. Because AXA can also help you answer:

• What type of Schengen visa do I need?
• How much does a Schengen visa cost?
• How long does it take to process a Schengen visa?
• How to get a Schengen visa for Malta

IMPORTANT NOTE: Oh, and visa or no visa, know that you can not stay in Malta (and/or the Schengen) for more than 90 days in any 180-day period* without further proper documentation (i.e., a residence permit or a ”Long-Stay” aka Type D/National visa).

*PRO-TIP: Fear not, AXA can help you understand the often confusing Schengen visa 90/180-day rule too!

What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Malta Schengen visa?

For your visa application to be accepted by the Maltese/Schengen authorities, you’re going to need a travel insurance plan that meets some specific EU requirements of its own.
And remember - you’ll need to have this plan already in place when applying!

According to the European Commission, you must have a travel insurance plan:

• purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries
• with a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (including hospitalization, emergency treatment, etc.)
• covering repatriation — including in case of death
• covering you in all the Schengen member countries
• valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area

PRO-TIP: Fortunately, all of AXA’s plans meet the EU criteria above (see below)!
But for the more legally curious, AXA has all the deets about travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa too.

What does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Malta cover?

Well, firstly, with AXA, you have:

• the confidence and peace of mind that comes with being supported by a decades-trusted, world-renowned Schengen travel insurance brand. And that’s from your Schengen visa interview to Malta, Gozo, Comino, and back!

Secondly, all of AXA’s plans (for Malta and beyond):

• Meet all the criteria required by the Schengen/EU for being granted a Schengen visa
• Are accepted by all Maltese (and other Schengen) embassies, consulates, and visa application centers worldwide
• Offer a fast and easy online subscription
• Provide a world-renowned instant travel insurance certificate
• Are valid for the Schengen area + the European Union + the United Kingdom (see plan options below)
• Offer a full refund in case your Malta Schengen visa application is denied

Plus, AXA plans have:

• No age limitation, zero deductibles, and require no medical exams
• Coverage of medical and repatriation costs of up to €2 Million
• Civil liability and personal liability insurance
• Death and disability coverage
• Baggage insurance (either included or optional)
• Upgrade options
• Flexibility in terms of time (and costs): coverage options for just one day, up to six months, or an entire year
• 24/7 emergency assistance
• Free remote medical consultation in English (and other languages) with our unique Doctor, Please! feature

And plenty more (see below)!

What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Malta?

Now that you know the perks, here’s a quick glimpse of the specific coverage options AXA has for your upcoming Malta adventure.

PRO-TIP: But make sure to click on each plan to learn more!

• AXA SCHENGEN BASIC: our most standard coverage, meeting all EU Schengen visa requirements and covering you in all Schengen countries + 4 European microstates (San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City).
  
• AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: complete, budget-friendly European coverage. ESSENTIAL meets all EU Schengen visa requirements too, but also covers you in all Schengen countries, all EU countries, the European microstates above, and the UK!
  
• AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: our all-inclusive, stress-free, worry-free coverage offers countless premium benefits (and also meets all EU Schengen visa requirements and covers you in all Schengen/EU countries, all the European microstates, and the UK).
  
• AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: and our yearly plan also meets all visa requirements while providing countless benefits and coverage across all Schengen countries, EU countries, the microstates, and the UK. However, ANNUAL also offers a single contract for a full year! This makes it ideal for holders of (or applicants for) multiple-entry Schengen visas and/or frequent travelers to Europe.

How much does Schengen travel insurance cost?

All of AXA’s plans still give you serious bang for your buck, with options for every kind of budget, from short city breaks to long Mediterranean escapes.

For quick reference:

• AXA BASIC starts from €4.90/day
• ESSENTIAL covers you from €8.90/day
• Our all‑inclusive PREMIUM plan — from €23.90/day
• And ANNUAL gives you a year of covered trips for around €350

Please note: Prices are provided for information purposes only and may vary depending on the traveler’s profile, length of stay, and selected coverage.

​And while the cost of living in many European and Schengen destinations is quickly on the rise, AXA’s plans stay dependable, transparent, and worry-free all across the Schengen (and beyond).

Moreover, the cost of your AXA plan actually decreases the longer you stay in Europe!

But you can learn all about what’s what price-wise via our comprehensive guide on:

AXA Schengen travel insurance costs

So, booking your Malta visa appointment? Looking for flights to the island(s)? Both? Well, be sure to add the following to your to-do list too:

Because with the right AXA plan, your holiday in the sun is sure to be as smooth and worry-free as can be.

Budget: most cost-effective Schengen insurance options for Malta?

In terms of affordability, these two AXA plans stand out as our most budget-friendly:

1- AXA’s ESSENTIAL plan — both our best-selling and most affordable option, it:

• Meets all Schengen visa requirements
• Covers you in all Schengen/EU countries + the UK
• Offers medical coverage up to €100,000
• Covers repatriation costs (including for a loved one)
• Comes with upgrade options (like baggage protection and delay)
• Offers 24/7 support, perks like daily hospital allowances, travel assistance…

…and much more!

2- AXA’s ANNUAL plan — and if you’re a frequent traveler to Malta (and beyond), ANNUAL is both convenient and cost-effective. Purchase a single policy — and all your trips under 90 days are covered for a full year!

How do I get an instant Schengen insurance certificate for Malta?

Visa appointment or not, our world-renowned (and world-recognized) proof of insurance is just a few clicks away from your pocket too. Simply:

• Choose an AXA plan above
• Request our free online quote
• Purchase your policy online
• Receive your insurance certificate instantly (via email)

And voilà! But just in case, we’ve also got a:

Step-by-step guide to getting your instant AXA travel insurance certificate

Can I get a refund on my insurance if my Maltese visa is refused?

Yes! The Maltese embassy/consulate not budging on that visa is, of course, not great news. Fortunately, however, AXA will gladly refund you in most cases!

You’ll just need to:

• Request and obtain an official refusal letter (and/or document) from the appropriate embassy or consulate (IMPORTANT!)
• Visit AXA’s Refund: Visa refusal page
• Email us the necessary details (i.e., your full name, policy number, email address, and the refusal letter above)

And if it all checks out — no harm, no foul! Your reimbursement is generally processed within 14 days via the method used for the initial payment (i.e., credit card).

If I don’t need a Schengen Visa for Malta, do I still need travel insurance?

Not legally speaking, no. But even in a place this magical, skipping insurance can turn the slightest mishap into an expensive lesson fast.

Travel insurance not mandatory – but wise

Again, visa-exempt travelers to Malta can sight-see and island-hop without showing proof of insurance.

But even so, no coverage can turn out to be a bad move quickly. A seaside tumble, a sudden stomach bug, or simply too much fun in the Maltese sun. And, boom - disrupted plans, red tape, hefty doctor bills. Or worse.

Sunshine hides sharp edges

Trekking the ancient walls of Mdina? Free-diving the Gozo caves? Cliff-jumping at the Blue Grotto? Chasing festas through packed village squares? Washing down ftira bread with some kinnie soda? Or simply catching some rays?

All is good and well, until… a coral-cut infection, a scooter wipeout on greasy harbor road, a mid-hike heatstroke amidst ancient history. And having no policy can quickly leave you stuck with:

• Steep private clinic and/or ambulance fees
• Endless forms and/or arguments for refunds
• Charter flights home eating your whole vacation fund

And, in short, generally a pretty bad time.

Real medical coverage changes the game

Meanwhile, a solid travel insurance plan gives you:

• Non-stop help and support for health crises and/or travel snags
• Paid hospital time, medevac, and surprise expenses
• Way less drama for you (and/or your crew)

And that’s no matter if you're fort-hopping in Valletta, cave-diving in Comino, ferry-crossing to Gozo’s wild interior, or just sipping some beer at a local cafe..

→ In other words, even though Malta border agents won't ask for proof of travel insurance, your bank account (and overall well-being) might.

What should I do if I’m injured or ill while in Malta?

In case of any unforeseen medical mishaps once you are in Malta, remember that AXA is by your side.
So stay calm, get out your phone, and just contact the AXA call center.*

Our world-class medical professionals are standing by 24/7. And no matter where in Malta you happen to be, they’re ready to answer questions, provide guidance and support, and - if need be - direct you to the nearest medical facility.

*PRO-TIP: The number will also be provided with your insurance policy.

And if it’s not necessarily an emergency, you can now also use our nifty little digital medical assistance tool — also available 24/7 (PRO-TIP: Just click “Medical Assistance” in the top left corner of almost any AXA screen).

What to Provide When Contacting AXA

-Your policy number (which begins with "SCH");

-The address and telephone number at which you can be reached (as well as the details of any people that can be contacted locally);

-Your dossier number (provided during your initial call).

List of Emergency contacts in Malta

Here are the key Maltese numbers to save alongside AXA’s 24/7 support:

• 112 – EU-wide emergency (ambulance, fire, police).
• 199 – Medical/ambulance emergencies.
• 191 – Fire brigade.
• 2122 4000 – Main police HQ (Valletta).
• 179 – Intimate violence/sexual assault helpline.

PRO-PHONE TIPS:

• A whole bunch of extra emergency services numbers can also be found at Malta.com.
• Malta’s country code is +356.

More practical tips + fun facts for prepping your trip to Malta

And, finally, here are a few more Malta essentials to bookmark before takeoff:

• Capital: Valletta.

FUN FACT: Valletta is not only a UNESCO gem, but also Europe’s sunniest + first planned city (built in just 15 months).

• Currency: Euro (€).
• Three islands, one trip: Malta (the country, but also an island), Gozo (mythic, rugged), Comino (Blue Lagoon central)

PRO-TIP: Ferries link them cheaply (around 5€) and fast (with Malta Public Transport being a good starting point).

• Driving* can be tricky: Namely because - HEADS-UP! - Maltans drive on the left. Yep. A UK colonial relic, unlike 99% of Europe (rentals have right-hand steering).

*DRIVING PRO-TIP: AXA can’t necessarily help you readjust, but can tell you which driving licenses are accepted in Europe.

• 7,000+ years of history: The Megalithic temples, for example, predate pyramids and Stonehenge.
• Two languages: English (the official one) and Maltese.* Signs/menus switch fluidly, but you’ll be alright.

*FUN FACT: Maltese is both interesting-sounding and the world's only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet.

• George Cross heroes: WWII island-wide medal from King George VI—Malta’s ultimate badge (and flag).
• 350+ churches: Almost one for every day of the year, basically. Oh, and church feasts light up summer skies yearly with competitive fireworks displays (one-upmanship between villages is fierce and not to be missed).
• Cruise + diver magnet: Valletta’s Grand Harbour sees 500k+ ships yearly, while (and maybe somewhat eerily) its underwater wrecks lure 100k+ divers.

FINAL PRO-TIP:
For maps, itineraries, live events, and more, visit the official Visit Malta site. And for the best insurance for your Maltese adventure - well, you’re on the right site already.

So vjaġġi sikuri!

Related articles :

• How can I choose the best Schengen travel insurance for my trip?
• Which countries are the easiest to get a Schengen visa for?
• The differences between Europe, the European Union, the EEA, and the Schengen Zon

FAQs about Malta

Is travel insurance useful for Malta if I already have a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?

A GHIC and/or an EHIC give access to medically necessary public healthcare in Malta on similar terms to local residents. However, they do not cover private clinics, medical repatriation, and/or non‑medical losses like trip cancellation or lost baggage. AXA, on the other hand, does.

​Does AXA travel insurance cover boat trips and water activities around Malta, Gozo, and Comino?

Yes, AXA covers basic water activities (swimming, snorkelling, ferry trips, kayaking, etc.) across all its Schengen plans (and for all three islands). However, higher-risk options (like scuba diving over 18m or jet skiing) may be excluded, or may require an ESSENTIAL upgrade. So make sure to double-check with your particular plan.

​Can I still buy AXA travel insurance for Malta if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Yes, so long as you declare it when purchasing your policy.

Can I take out an AXA Schengen travel insurance plan for Malta on behalf of someone else?

Totally! AXA lets you easily buy a policy for guests, family, colleagues, and so on. You’ll only be asked to provide their personal details - such as their name, DOB, address, passport number, and itinerary - and they’re good to go!